» Modi accuses players unions of using security threat to bargain with IPL

Modi accuses players unions of using security threat to bargain with IPL

Published: Thursday, February 25, 2010, 13:41 [IST]

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Mumbai, Feb.25 (ANI): Indian Premier League supremo Lalit Modi has accused player unions of using a security threat against overseas players as leverage to gain bargaining status with the IPL and the Indian cricket board.

In a withering series of messages posted on the social networking site Twitter, Modi said: "Security - seems to be the new mantra of players association to arm twist us (into) sitting on the table with us," Modi wrote.

"I have been sent messages through various quarters to entertain FICA president Tim May. Unfortunately we do not recognise FICA or any agents. We will not be dictated by players associations where to play. (The) IPL will be played in India," The Age further quoted him, as saying.

"We will allow replacement for those who decide not to show up. They risk being in future IPL (tournaments). The call will be theirs. We allow only four international players per team. A few miss - no issues. We have great talent in each team. More opportunity for replacement to others," he added.

"We have 98 players on the waiting list eager to get called in for replacement. So they have hope now if some drop out," Modi said.

Focusing more on Australia, Modi said many of those players who did take part would only play a minor role, arriving for the final two weeks of the event after national team duties.

"Been told Ricky Ponting pressuring players not to come. Maybe its due to the fact he was dropped from Kolkata Knight Riders," wrote Modi.

"Australia tour to India in October - will Australian players association dictate them not coming then? Doubt it, he said. (ANI)